Fine Motor Friday- Lock and Key

Not only does this activity entertain your little locksmith to be, it also develops manual dexterity , hand eye coordination , problem solving and memory! That’s a lot for one simple ( and mess free) activity. My son loved it- it was challenging but not frustrating. My advice is if you think your little one is ready, try it if they get frustrated put it away for a while, then try again.

Gather your materials. I got 3 different lock/ key combos at a discount store, you want them to look different so it’s not too confusing. I also a binder ring for a key chain and a tray to keep the activity in one place.

Put all three keys onto the ring.

Lay out the locks and key chain and invite your child to open these locks.

I helped with the first before I was shooed away by my independent 2 year old.

“Look mama look! Key in!”

** I was just informed that some keys are high in lead, so make sure you wash those little hands throughly after playing, just in case! **

We have had this as a lesson at the preschool that I work at and I also recommend it for young children. But keep an eye on the locks. One of our most innovative four year olds snuck a lock and key onto the playground and locked his favorite toys to the fence and then lost the key.

That is SO smart! My son likes to play with keys and walk around with them pretending to lock and unlock the playroom door. I’m sure he would LOVE this activity. Do you have any suggestions on where to find those types of locks?